5/18/2026
WHAT HOLDS YOU BACK IN EVERYDAY LIFE ALSO HOLDS GERMANY BACK
SPRIND and the Federal Ministry for Digitalization and State Modernization launch Citizen Hackathon to simplify bureaucracy
Goodbye, administrative red tape. Hello, innovative solutions: The Federal Agency for Breakthrough Innovation SPRIND and the Federal Ministry for Digitalization and State Modernization (BDSM) are officially launching a citizen hackathon – effective immediately.
After all, Germany is capable of so much more – yet all too often, we waste time and energy on unnecessarily complicated processes. The citizen hackathon tackles the issue precisely here: at the root of people's real-world problems. It transforms frustration into focus – and focus into concrete solutions that are actually developed and implemented. The hackathon begins where it hurts the most – in the daily lives of individuals and businesses – so that we can once again think big about the future.
Anyone can join in and use the AI Reporter, the AI Citizen Hotline, or the Einfach machen
form at deutschland-was-geht.org.
The citizen hackathon spans seven phases running through the end of the year. Up to five teams will be selected as winners – and their solutions will be implemented, integrated into administrative workflows, and scaled up. This will be backed by political support, dedicated resources, and clear lines of responsibility.
The initiative combines the collective wisdom of the many with the implementation power of the state and innovative teams. Everyday frustrations will give rise to concrete improvements. Participation will lead to real change.
To stay informed about every stage of the citizen hackathon and future opportunities to get involved, sign up for the newsletter.
Tell us what frustrates you.
Tell us what could be done better.
And help us make Germany simpler.
